Meaning of classical physics

Classical physics, also known as "classical mechanics," refers to the branch of physics that deals with the study of physical laws and principles that govern the behavior of macroscopic objects, such as those we encounter in our daily lives. It encompasses the fundamental principles of motion, force, energy, and matter that were developed and understood before the advent of modern physics, particularly the theories of relativity and quantum mechanics.

Key components of classical physics include

1. Newtonian Mechanics: Developed by Sir Isaac Newton in the 17th century, Newtonian mechanics lays out the laws governing the motion of objects. These laws include Newton's three laws of motion, which describe how forces affect the motion of objects.

2. Classical Electromagnetism: This area of classical physics deals with electric and magnetic phenomena. It is largely described by the equations formulated by James Clerk Maxwell in the 19th century, known as Maxwell's equations.

3. Thermodynamics: Classical thermodynamics, developed in the 19th century, deals with the concepts of heat, temperature, and energy transfer. It includes the laws of thermodynamics, which govern the behavior of energy in systems.

4. Wave and Optics: Classical physics also includes the study of waves, including sound waves and electromagnetic waves (light). Geometrical optics, which describes how light behaves when interacting with lenses and mirrors, is also part of this branch.

5. Kinetic Theory of Gases: This theory explains the behavior of gases based on the motion of their constituent particles and was developed in the 19th century.

6. Classical Wave Mechanics: This includes the study of the behavior of waves, such as sound and water waves, using classical physics principles.

Classical physics works well for describing the behavior of everyday objects and phenomena at macroscopic scales, where the effects of relativity and quantum mechanics are negligible. However, when dealing with objects moving at speeds close to the speed of light or very small particles like atoms and subatomic particles, classical physics breaks down, and the more advanced theories of relativity and quantum mechanics become necessary.

Key people who studied classical physics are

• Newton
• Huygens
• Coulomb
• Faraday
• Maxwell

Classical physics laws were being followed up until 1900. In 1901, Max Planck solved ultaviolet catastrophe which laid the foundation of modern physics including theories of relativity and quantum mechanics!